Stephen Chow has been named as the producer of the live action adaptation of the Japanese comic Dragonball.

Chow's previous movies have included Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle.

War of the Worlds actor Justin Chatwin will play the hero of the film, Goku, while James Marsters will take on the bad guy role of Piccolo.

The story will revolve around Goku's attempts to protect earth from malicious forces and gain control of the dragonballs.

The movie will begin shooting later this year, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Dragonball is due to appear in cinemas in August 2008.